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50 years ago, drains and canals formed the network that helped Singapore keep flooding at bay. Today, they have been transformed into cultural, sporting and environmental assets of the island.

From longkang to lake

Fifty years ago, Singapore’s drains and canals served a specific purpose: To alleviate floods in the country. The government rapidly constructed drains, monsoon canals and water storage ponds to address the urgent needs of a young independent nation.

Once the basics had been taken care of, the shift towards unlocking the full potential of waterbodies and waterways started. Today, canals are integrated with the country’s urban landscape and have helped beautify areas such as Punggol and Jurong.

This publication by Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC) chronicles the journey from longkang to lake and shows that the transformation of Singapore was made possible with a touch of creativity, lots of determination and the smart use of new technology.

Population.sg brings together people with diverse backgrounds to discuss and write about population matters in Singapore. We focus on demographic challenges in Singapore and what needs to be done to create a strong Singaporean core with good opportunities and high-quality living for Singaporeans.